A micro-level perspective to fostering IDEAs in the classroom and beyond

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, & Access (IDEA) spurs creativity, encourages ideas from people who have been historically ignored, and promotes an invigorating learning environment. Despite such benefits, we do precious little when it comes to practicing the same in our classrooms. Regrettably, our infrastructure and education system does not always provide enough opportunities for the younger generation to appreciate, understand and experience the significance of an inclusive society, preventing our students an opportunity to apply what they learn in the classroom for the betterment of marginalized and minoritized communities. Against such a backdrop, the author focuses on how faculty can enhance the classroom-level student-experience through a model that helps students’ understanding and appreciation of IDEA. The author believes that this research model not only plugs a significant gap in our attitude towards IDEA practice and implementation but will also spur educators and practitioners to consider adopting similar measures while designing their respective curricula.